Grinding Cinnamon Sticks Like a Pro: 7 Hilariously Effective Methods You Never Knew Existed

So, you've got yourself a cinnamon stick (or five), and now you're staring at it thinking, "How the heck do I turn this into usable spice?" Welcome to the club! Grinding cinnamon sticks can be a surprisingly fun — and occasionally frustrating — experience. In this guide, we'll explore 7 effective methods to get that fragrant, sweet bark ready for your next dish or DIY project.

Whether you’re making homemade chai, pumpkin spice lattes, or just trying to impress your foodie friends with your spice game, this post has got you covered. And don’t worry — no PhD in botany required!

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Why Bother Grinding Cinnamon Sticks?
• Tools You’ll Need (Or Can Fake With)
• 7 Creative Ways to Grind Cinnamon Sticks
• Pro Tips & Flavor Hacks
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Final Thoughts

Why Bother Grinding Cinnamon Sticks?

You might wonder, "Why not just buy pre-ground cinnamon and skip all the work?" Fair question. But here’s the deal:

• Fresher flavor: Freshly ground cinnamon from sticks packs more punch than the store-bought powder.
• Better aroma: The scent of freshly crushed bark is like autumn in a jar — cozy, warm, and totally Instagrammable.
• Chef-like credibility: Impress your guests by saying you grind your own cinnamon sticks. Instant street cred.

Tools You’ll Need (Or Can Fake With)

Before we dive into the methods, let’s talk about tools. Most kitchens already have something that can get the job done. Here’s what you might need:

Tool	Function	Alternative Tools
Blender/food processor	Quick grinding of small batches	Spice grinder, coffee grinder (dedicated to spices only!)
Mortar and pestle	Traditional method with control	Rolling pin + ziplock bag, meat mallet
Microplane/zester	Fine grating without heat loss	Vegetable peeler + knife

7 Creative Ways to Grind Cinnamon Sticks

Let’s break down each method with pros, cons, and visual aids so you can pick your favorite. Yes, some are hilariously unconventional — but hey, if it works, it works.

Method 1: The Blender Blitz

Place broken pieces of cinnamon stick in a blender or food processor. Pulse until fine. This method is fast, easy, and leaves your kitchen smelling like heaven.

• Pros: Quick, consistent texture
• Cons: May dull blades over time

Method 2: Mortar & Pestle Magic

The classic approach. Break the sticks into smaller pieces and crush them manually. It's therapeutic and satisfying.

• Pros: Full control, preserves oils
• Cons: Time-consuming, requires elbow grease

Method 3: Microplane Marvel

Use a microplane to grate the stick directly over your recipe. Works best with thinner, softer sticks.

• Pros: Fine powder without heat damage
• Cons: Wears out quickly on harder sticks

Method 4: Rolling Pin Smash

Put broken cinnamon pieces in a ziplock bag and roll over with a rolling pin. Primitive but effective.

• Pros: No special tools needed
• Cons: Uneven texture, potential mess

Method 5: Coffee Grinder Conversion

If you have an old coffee grinder reserved solely for spices, this is your go-to tool. Just toss in pieces and pulse until powdered.

• Pros: Fast and efficient
• Cons: Must never use for coffee again

Method 6: Manual Chopping + Sifting

Chop cinnamon finely with a knife, then sift through a mesh strainer to collect finer particles.

• Pros: Great for small amounts
• Cons: Labor-intensive, inconsistent results

Method 7: Oven Toast + Cool Down

To intensify flavor, toast cinnamon sticks in a 300°F oven for 5–10 minutes, then cool completely before grinding.

• Pros: Deepens flavor profile
• Cons: Extra step, not always necessary

Pro Tips & Flavor Hacks

Now that you know how to grind cinnamon sticks, here are some bonus tips to make the most of your efforts:

• Store properly: Keep ground cinnamon in an airtight container away from light and moisture. Shelf life: ~6 months.
• Pair smartly: Cinnamon loves nutmeg, cloves, cardamom, and even a hint of black pepper.
• Add at the right time: For baking, add early; for beverages, near the end for fresher taste.
• Label it: Don’t forget to label your homemade spice blend. Trust us, future-you will thank present-you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I grind whole cinnamon sticks without breaking them first?

Technically yes, but breaking them into smaller chunks ensures more even grinding and protects your tools.

Is there a difference between cinnamon sticks and ground cinnamon in flavor?

Absolutely! Stick cinnamon tends to be spicier and more complex compared to the often sweeter ground version.

Can I reuse cinnamon sticks after grinding?

Once they’re ground, there’s not much left to reuse. However, simmering used sticks in liquids can still impart flavor.

Should I toast cinnamon sticks before grinding?

Only if you want a deeper, smokier note. Not essential, but adds a chef-level twist.

What’s the best way to clean up after grinding cinnamon?

Cinnamon gets everywhere. Wipe surfaces immediately and vacuum any lingering dust to avoid spreading it airborne.

Final Thoughts

There you have it — seven ways to grind cinnamon sticks like a seasoned pro (pun intended). Whether you’re using a high-powered blender or channeling your inner caveman with a rock and a rolling pin, the key is to enjoy the process and embrace the delicious chaos.

And remember: the world is full of mysteries, but grinding cinnamon doesn't have to be one of them. So go ahead — break open that stick, start crushing, and bring your culinary creations to life, one spicy sprinkle at a time.